12 Best Things to Do in Sydney, Australia, for Families

Sydney is considered one of the most family-friendly cities in the world. It offers a balance of exciting activities, cultural experiences, and great nature. Be it a day full of discovering animals, exploring beautiful beaches, or taking in the various sights from high above, Sydney is really the best destination for family adventures. The 12 must-do experiences in Sydney which will be enjoyed by the whole family now follow.

Visit the Sydney Opera House

The Sydney Opera House is not only one of the world’s most famous buildings; it is also great for things to do with kids. Its unique design, with enormous white sails, makes it an iconic symbol of Australia. Inside the Opera House, there are family-friendly guided tours explaining the fascinating history and construction of the place. Children will be able to come and listen to amusing stories of how it was built, and even find some backstage secrets. The surroundings of the Opera House are also rather family-friendly: it’s possible to walk around, have snacks, and contemplate the views over the harbor.

Explore Taronga Zoo

It is an attraction that should not be missed if a family loves animals. Situated right on Sydney Harbour, this zoo hosts more than 4,000 animals, including all the Australian favorites, such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and even the rare platypus. Other animals from around the world are also in displays, such as giraffes, lions, and tigers. There are animal shows and feeding sessions running throughout the day that kids love, while the zoo’s Sky Safari cable car whisks you over the enclosures for a bird’s-eye view of both the animals and spectacular harbor below. It is not just about looking at animals but, rather, learning how to protect them; thus, this visit will be educational and an inspiration.

Spend a Day at Bondi Beach

Of course, no visit to Sydney would be complete without a stop at one of the world’s most renowned beaches: Bondi Beach! Bondi is good to have family fun in. One can swim in the patrolled, shallow waters, make sandcastles on the beach, or just vege out while the kids splash around. If your family loves to walk, then take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk for a breathtaking view of the ocean and cliffs. For any member of your family who wants to learn how to surf, Bondi is just the place. There are numerous surf schools around that offer classes, even for absolute beginners.

Discover Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

The Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is an ideal submersed world that will amaze your kids but also the adults. Inside the aquarium, it holds about 13,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, seahorses, and penguins. One of the coolest features is the glass tunnel that will enable you to walk right through the ocean display with sharks and rays swimming above and beside you! The aquarium consists of three different zones: the Great Barrier Reef, the ocean’s predators, and Antarctic penguins. Hands-on interaction with the displays makes this an educational yet truly fun experience in learning about the ocean for your kids, thus making it a memory worth having for any family.

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is an unforgettable adventure that offers panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic skyline and beautiful harbor. This experience allows you to ascend the arches of one of the world’s most famous bridges, standing 134 meters above sea level. Guided by expert instructors, climbers are securely harnessed as they scale the steel structure, learning fascinating facts about the bridge’s history and engineering along the way. Reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House, the sparkling waters of the harbor, and the cityscape stretching in every direction. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to soak up Sydney’s beauty from a new perspective, the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is a must-do for anyone visiting the city.

Take a Ferry to Manly Beach

A great way to see Sydney’s stunning harbor is to take the ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach. You will see all the sights on a 30-minute scenic ride out of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and waterfront homes to the beautiful Manly Beach. Manly is an extremely outdoorsy, family-friendly destination. You can swim, surf, or paddleboard in the mild waves, and picnic spots are plentiful. The oceanfront promenade is lined with shops and restaurants, and a visit to Manly Sea Life Sanctuary gives kids a chance to learn more about marine life.

Go on an Adventure at Luna Park

Luna Park is an attractive, old-fashioned amusement park that sits right on Sydney Harbour. The huge entrance to the park-a big smiling face-is a perennial favorite for family photos. Inside the park, you’ll find numerous rides and games targeted at all ages. Whether your family loves fast roller coasters or Ferris wheels, or if gentler rides for little people are more your thing, there’s something for everyone. But the best thing about Luna Park is the setting: the views from the top of the rides over the harbor and city skyline are spectacular. With its carnival games, tasty snacks, and fun events throughout the year, Luna Park is the perfect venue for a fun-filled family day out.

Hurry – deal expired 31/12/2024

Go on a Sydney Whale Watching Cruise

Visiting Sydney between May and November has its own reward: it is whale watching season. It is the time when the humpback whales make their annual migration, and a Sydney Whale Watching Cruise gives you the best chance to see them up close. Cruises leave from Circular Quay out into the Pacific Ocean, where you might have the chance to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. Sometimes, the whales jump out of the water, a thing well-known as breaching, and that is a sight to remember! You may also see dolphins, seals, and seabirds on the way. It’s quite an adventure, and it is one great way for kids to learn about marine life and its conservation.

Check Out the Australian Museum

The Australian Museum is one of the great venues for kids and curious families who want to learn something. It is full of fascinating exhibits that introduce one to Australia’s wildlife, history, and culture. One of the central features of this museum is the dinosaur exhibit-one can practically see enormous skeletons up close. It also contains interactive areas in which kids may be allowed to touch the fossils, learn about the ancient cultures, and participate in a hands-on manner in several activities. It is a great place for kids of all ages to have fun while learning about natural history, science, and even culture.

Meet Celebrities at Madame Tussauds Sydney

Get up close to life-like wax figures of famous celebrities, athletes, musicians, and even superheroes at Madame Tussauds Sydney. Kids will have much fun taking photos with favorite characters-from Marvel superheroes to sporting legends and Hollywood stars. Each is highly detailed, while the interactive exhibits place you right into the movie scene or onto stage with a music icon. All in all, it is both fun and light-hearted and your whole family will be in stitches, posing for some quite unforgettable photos.

Explore Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour is one of the busiest waterfront areas in the city, absolutely full of activities with families. For starters, the area is home to the Darling Quarter Playground, one of Sydney’s largest playgrounds, which contains ropes to climb, water features kids will adore, slides, and swings. The harbor also offers the Australian National Maritime Museum; you can explore historic ships and submarines. You can find restaurants and cafes nearby too, where you can have something to eat. Be it playing at the playground, learning about the maritime history, or just strolling around the waterfront, Darling Harbour happens to be one of the best places to spend your day.

Go on a Sydney Tower Eye Skywalk

It is one great way for those families who have members who love a bit of thrill and adventure to see the city. The Skywalk takes you outside onto a glass platform, 268 metres above the ground! You get to walk around at the top of Sydney’s highest building with 360-degree views of the city below you. When it’s clear, you can easily see right to the Blue Mountains. Children love this place as walking on air allows them to see above famous landmarks; meanwhile, adults just enjoy breathtaking scenery.

Conclusion

Sydney is just packed with amazing and memorable family experiences-from beginning a day with breathtaking views from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to whale spotting on a cruise, or even meeting your favourite celebrity at Madame Tussauds. This great city literally offers something for everyone. Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Sydney!

** Our website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support our mission to bring you quality content.

FAQ

What are the top three things to do in Sydney, Australia?

The top three must-do activities in Sydney are:

• Sydney Opera House: This world-famous architectural marvel offers guided tours, family-friendly events, and stunning views of the harbour.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Adventurous visitors can climb to the top of the bridge for breathtaking views of the city and Sydney Harbour.
• Bondi Beach: Sydney’s most iconic beach, Bondi, is perfect for relaxing, swimming, surfing, or taking the scenic coastal walk to Coogee Beach.

What do tourists typically do when visiting Sydney, Australia?

Tourists visiting Sydney often enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and sightseeing. Some of the most popular things tourists typically do include:

• Taking a ferry ride across Sydney Harbour.
• Visiting Taronga Zoo to see Australian wildlife like kangaroos and koalas.
• Exploring Darling Harbour with its playgrounds, restaurants, and attractions like Sea Life Aquarium and Madame Tussauds.
• Relaxing at Bondi Beach or Manly Beach.
• Walking through the Royal Botanic Garden for beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.

Is 3 days enough for Sydney?

While 3 days in Sydney is enough to see the main highlights, like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach, it might feel a bit rushed. If you’re short on time, you can still experience the essentials:

• Day 1: Explore Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, and climb the Harbour Bridge.
• Day 2: Visit Taronga Zoo or Sea Life Aquarium, and spend the afternoon at Bondi Beach.
• Day 3: Take a ferry to Manly Beach or explore Darling Harbour and the Australian Museum.

How do I spend a day in Sydney?

If you only have one day in Sydney, here’s a suggested itinerary:

• Morning: Start with a walk around Circular Quay, visit the Sydney Opera House, and take a stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden for great harbour views.
• Midday: Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb for panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Head to Bondi Beach for a swim or relax on the sand, followed by a coastal walk.
• Evening: Return to Darling Harbour for dinner and enjoy the vibrant nightlife or a sunset cruise on the harbour.

Is 7 days in Sydney too much?

No, 7 days in Sydney is not too much, especially if you want to explore the city at a relaxed pace or visit nearby attractions. With a week, you can:

• See the major sights, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.
• Take day trips to Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley, or the Royal National Park.
• Spend time at museums, the zoo, and visit beaches beyond the city, like Manly and Watsons Bay.
• You can also enjoy whale-watching tours, shopping, and exploring local neighbourhoods like Newtown and Surry Hills.

How much spending money do you need for Sydney?

The amount of spending money you’ll need depends on your travel style, but on average:

• Budget travelers: Around AUD $100–$150 per day (hostel stays, public transport, street food, and free or low-cost attractions).
• Mid-range travelers: AUD $200–$300 per day (3-star hotels, public transport or Uber, dining out, and paid attractions).
• Luxury travelers: AUD $400–$600 per day (5-star hotels, dining at top restaurants, private tours, and premium experiences). Remember to budget for entry fees to attractions, dining, transport, and souvenirs.